Key Takeaways

  • A Saudi exit/re-entry visa is essential for residents who plan to leave and return to the Kingdom within a specified period.
  • Applications can be submitted via the Absher or Muqeem platforms.
  • Visa types include single and multiple entries, with fees based on the chosen option.

Latest Updates on Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa

According to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), residents currently outside Saudi Arabia can now extend their single or multiple exit/re-entry visas via the Absher and Muqeem portals.

What is a Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa?

The Saudi exit/re-entry visa is a mandatory travel document for:

  • Employees who need to leave and return to Saudi Arabia within a stipulated period.
  • Individuals with family members or domestic workers outside the Kingdom.

This visa ensures that expatriates can legally re-enter Saudi Arabia before the visa expiry date.

How to Apply for a Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before applying for a Saudi exit/re-entry visa, ensure the following conditions are met:

  1. Passport Validity:
    • Must be valid for at least 6 months, with a minimum of two consecutive blank pages.
  2. Residence Permit:
    • A valid Iqama (residence permit) is required, with copies of previous extensions (if applicable).
  3. Online Application & Payment:
  4. Additional Documents:
    • A letter from the Saudi sponsor confirming employment and requesting a visa extension.
    • Family registration details from the Directorate General of Passports.
    • Proof of school enrollment for students residing outside Saudi Arabia for over 13 months.
  5. Fee for Overstay:
    • A fine of $100 per month will be charged for overstays beyond the visa expiration date.
  6. Traveling Minors:
    • Minors under 18 years traveling alone or with one parent must provide a notarized letter from a guardian.

Note:

  • The visa holder must have at least 90 days of passport validity for exit/re-entry and 60 days for final exit.
  • Visa extensions can be processed online via the Absher or Muqeem platforms.

Application Process

You can apply for the exit/re-entry visa through:

  1. Absher Portal (for Employees & Dependents)
  2. Muqeem Portal (for Employers & Sponsors)

Applying via Absher

For Employees

  1. Log in to your Absher account.
  2. Navigate to “My Services” > “Services” > “Passports.”
  3. Select “Visa Requests,” then click “Create Visa Request.”
  4. Choose “Exit Re-Entry Visa (Single).”
  5. Enter the number of days required (maximum 30 days).
  6. Accept the agreement and submit the application.
  • The employer has 10 days to object to the request.
  • After approval, the visa must be issued within 5 days of the eleventh day.

For Dependents

  1. Log in to Absher.
  2. Go to “Family Members” > “Visa Services.”
  3. Select the dependent’s profile.
  4. Click “Issue Visa” and agree to the terms.
  5. Choose between Single or Multiple Entry.
  6. Confirm and download the visa.

Important: A printed copy of the visa is required for dependents traveling outside Saudi Arabia.

Applying via Muqeem

  1. Visit the Muqeem portal.
  2. Log in with your credentials.
  3. Navigate to “Electronic Transactions” > “Electronic Exit Re-Entry Visa.”
  4. Choose “Issue Exit Re-Entry Visa.”
  5. Enter the Iqama number and exit duration.
  6. Confirm and print the visa for reference.

Visa Validity

Saudi exit/re-entry visas are available in two types:

Visa TypeValidity PeriodNumber of Entries
Single EntryUp to 2 months (extendable)1 entry
Multiple EntryUp to 3 months (extendable)Multiple entries
  • Single-entry visas allow re-entry only once within the specified period.
  • Multiple-entry visas permit repeated travel within their validity.
  • Extensions can be requested online if the applicant is outside Saudi Arabia.

Fees for Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa

The visa fees are non-refundable once issued. However, expatriate workers are not required to pay the fees themselves, as their employer bears the costs.

Single Exit/Re-Entry Visa

  • Fee for 2 months: 200 SAR (approx. $53.32)
  • Extra month (up to Iqama expiry): 100 SAR ($26.66) per additional month

Example:

  • 1-30 days = 1 month
  • 31-60 days = 2 months

Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Visa

  • Fee for 3 months: 500 SAR (approx. $133.29)
  • Extra month (up to Iqama expiry): 200 SAR ($53.32) per additional month

How to Check Saudi Exit/Re-Entry Visa Status Online

You can track your visa status through:

Via Absher

  1. Log in to Absher.
  2. Go to “Guaranteed Services” > “Inquiries” > “Exit and Return Visa Status.”
  3. Your visa details will be displayed.

Via Muqeem

  1. Visit the Muqeem portal.
  2. Enter your Iqama Number or Visa Number.
  3. Verify using one of the following:
    • Passport number
    • Name
    • Date of birth
    • Visa expiry date
  4. Click “Check” to view the visa status.

Tip: Take a screenshot or print the visa details for immigration purposes.

Important Reminders

  • Visa holders must travel within 3 months of issuance; failure to do so may result in fines.
  • The Absher/Muqeem portals allow expatriates to extend their visas from outside the Kingdom.
  • A valid Iqama and compliance with travel regulations are essential to avoid penalties.

Conclusion

The Saudi exit/re-entry visa is a crucial document for expatriates needing to temporarily leave and return to the Kingdom. By following the outlined procedures and requirements, you can ensure a hassle-free application and travel experience.

For more details or to apply, visit: